Stalled peace, rising tensions: DRC rebels blame gov’t for ceasefire collapse

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faces a renewed threat of conflict as peace efforts between the government and the Congo River Alliance — a coalition that includes the M23 rebels — are faltering.
The insurgent group has accused the Congolese government of systematically violating ceasefire agreements and undermining Qatari-led peace talks. Under a Doha-brokered framework signed on 19 July, both sides agreed to start formal negotiations by 8 August and reach a deal by 18 August. However, neither delegation showed up in Qatar, and no agreement was reached. M23 leaders claimed they never received an official invitation, while the Congolese military accused rebels of renewed attacks in eastern provinces.
Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Congo River Alliance, said in a press briefing that “successive violations of the ceasefire” by government forces and allied militias in South Kivu have jeopardized the talks. He urged mediators from Qatar, the African Union, and the United Nations to hold Kinshasa accountable, warning of a possible “appropriate response” if provocations continue. Despite missed deadlines, Qatari officials insist both parties remain open to dialogue. Talks have resumed in Doha with support from the U.S. and Red Cross. Yet violence continues to flare in the mineral-rich east, raising fears that peace — once again — may remain elusive in one of Africa’s most volatile regions.